Requiem for a Dream Structure

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Requiem for a Dream uses a series of non-interactive screens that present transitions between states, usually between normal looking web pages and a layered dark underworld. To choose your path through the story there are little interactive toys that allow two or three choices. As you move deeper into the game, the browser (the entire gameworld) becomes more disjointed and distressed. As you reach the end of each branch you are returned to the opening page to try a different route.

The interaction with the site mimics the film story in that it has three strands, each from the point of view of one of the characters. It is possible to jump between characters, but as we explore more, the screen space becomes disjointed and disrupted. So in essence it is a very straightforward structure, layered with complex and rich imagery that disguise its simplicity.

Notes

I once visited this site in the small hours – 1 or 2am – in a dark, warm room. I started browsing in full screen mode to have a more involved browsing experience – the site flickered to life (as it does) and I became deeply engaged with its surreal storyline, until I was truly affected by its scary undertones and disconcerting, subverted messages.

The fact that the screen was somehow invading a very personal space made this experience very powerful. In this receptive context, the strong visuals, the content driven navigation and spatial-ambient sound reinforced a very strong idea.

More work by hi-res

• Donnie Darko
  An observant audience researches material related to a sinister plot to gain passwords to higher levels.
• Jump Tomorrow
  Online counterpart to the film – play the main character in a game linked to the film narrative.
• Center of the World
  A largely conversational interface, using chat bots to lead you through a dark narrative.
• The Business of Strangers
  A site of two sides – day and night. The gameworld takes place in light and darkness, echoing themes from the film.
• The Third Place
  Working on themes of fear and addiction – compelling and evocative imagery goes over the top of a user feedback system which is not so successful.
• Soul Bath
  The opening sequence to this site disrupts your experience of the internet in a wonderfully playful way.

© Timo Arnall 11^th February 2002
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